North and South India

By combining north and south India, you get a wonderfully varied experience. In the north, you explore forts, palaces and the Taj Mahal. You also wander colourful markets and hear tales of a fascinating history. In the south, by contrast, life is far more laid-back. So you drift down palm-fringed backwaters by private houseboat. All around, the rural way of life unfolds. To finish, you reach the Indian Ocean for some well-earned rest. As ever, it is private and tailored to you.

Two Halves of India

The magic of this trip lies in its contrasts. First come the colour and grandeur of the north. Then follows the gentle calm of the south. So you pack remarkable variety into a single journey. Meanwhile, the pace eases as you travel. As a result, you arrive at the beach ready to unwind.

Delhi

Begin in Delhi for two days. On the first, simply settle in. The next day, explore the city with your private guide. First, head to Old Delhi and the imposing Red Fort. Then ride a cycle rickshaw through the bazaars of Chandni Chowk. After lunch, turn to the wide avenues of British New Delhi.

Agra and the Taj Mahal

Next, take the early train to Agra. That afternoon, explore Agra Fort and the Baby Taj. Then walk the far bank of the Yamuna to Mehtab Bagh for the Taj at sunset. The following morning, see the Taj Mahal itself at sunrise. Afterwards, drive on towards Jaipur. En route, pause at the deserted Mughal capital of Fatehpur Sikri.

Jaipur: The Pink City

In Jaipur, spend the morning at the markets with your guide. Together you walk the old artisan quarters, where craftsmanship is still on show. Then see the City Palace and the Jantar Mantar observatory. The next day, head north for a walk through the villages around Amber Fort. After exploring the fort, you can even take an elephant safari, ending with dinner at the camp.

Udaipur: The City of Lakes

From Jaipur, fly the short distance to Udaipur. It is Rajasthan’s most picturesque city. So you spend two days soaking up its romance. On the second, take a walking tour with your guide. Together you wander the markets before reaching the City Palace.

Cochin: Into the South

Now fly south to Cochin, via Mumbai. Here you spend two nights easing into southern India. On the second day, explore the old fort area on foot. Together you see Mattancherry Palace and the markets of Jew Town. Already, the pace feels gentler.

The Backwaters

Next, drive south to the banks of Lake Vembanad for two nights. That afternoon, explore the communities who live around the backwaters. So you step into local homes and learn a little Indian cookery. You also take a traditional boat down the smaller channels. The following day, drift across the lake by Keralan houseboat.

The Beach

Finally, transfer the short distance to Marari Beach. Here you have two days of pure relaxation. After such a varied journey, it is the perfect close. So swim, rest and let it all sink in.

Where You Stay

Throughout, the hotels are characterful and well-placed. In Jaipur, the lovely Samode Haveli sits in the heart of the city. In Udaipur, Bujera Fort offers calm just outside town. Elsewhere, you stay in heritage hotels and backwater retreats. Of course, each is chosen for its setting and warmth.

How You Travel

Naturally, the whole journey is private. So you have your own drivers and expert guides throughout. Meanwhile, fast trains and short flights link the regions. As a result, even this wide-ranging route feels easy. In short, you simply enjoy the contrasts.

Best Time to Travel

Generally, the cooler, drier months from October to March suit both regions. By contrast, the pre-monsoon months grow hot in the north. So we usually favour the winter window. Either way, we advise on the ideal timing for your dates.

A Trip of Two Worlds

What makes this so satisfying is the rhythm of it. First come busy cities and grand monuments. Then follow slow days on the water. So you experience both the energy and the calm of India. As a result, you return having seen a remarkable cross-section in one trip.

Who It Suits

Above all, this route suits first-time visitors. For example, it gathers the country’s headline highlights in two weeks. Equally, it rewards anyone wanting both culture and rest. Couples and families alike enjoy it. So it remains one of our most popular suggestions.

Easy to Extend

Finally, the trip flexes easily around you. For example, add a tiger safari between the regions. Equally, lengthen the beach finale to suit. As ever, every detail is shaped to fit your plans.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is this trip best for?

Above all, it suits first-time visitors wanting the major highlights. For example, it pairs Rajasthan’s forts with Kerala’s calm. As a result, you see two very different sides of India in one trip.

How long do I need?

The core route works well over around two weeks. Of course, it can be shortened or extended. We will shape the length to suit you.

When is the best time to travel?

Generally, October to March is the most comfortable across both regions. We will advise on timing for your dates.

Can it be tailored?

Entirely. The pace, hotels and route are all shaped around you. Simply share your dates and interests, and we will craft the rest.